New EREMA strand pelletising/crystallisation technology SCC (Strand Crystal Cut)

For some years now Erema has been using the VACUREMA technology in what are referred to as "inline processes" to successfully process PET in only one melting stage and directly to make products such as PET film, fibres and packing straps. A further "inline" process has recently been added to these processes: the crystallisation of pellets integrated in the strand pelletising system for the direct production of crystallised, cylindrical strand pellets.

Unlike conventional strand pelletising, the strands in the VACUREMA technology with integrated inline strand crystallisation are drawn off at very high speeds. Additionally the cooling line, before cutting, is very short and  hot water is used as cooling medium.

These three features ensure that the pellets cut under water are cooled down only very slightly on the outside surface but remain plastic on the inside. This way there is still adequate thermal energy inside the pellets to enable subsequent crystallisation.

Following a centrifugal drying process the hot pellets are conveyed to a vibrating table, where the actual crystallisation process takes place. No external energy whatsoever - such as infrared or warm air energy - is required in the process. The pellets can then be packed without sticking to each other in Big Bags etc. in a downstream section. The inner warmth of the pellets is enough, beside the crystallisation, for any residual moisture to evaporate so that dry, crystallised pellets can be packed.